Anti-Heroes with Zach Blair

Zach Blair
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Anti-Heroes with Zach Blair is a podcast about guitar players that aren't on the covers of the guitar magazines but our host, Zach Blair thinks they should be. Each episode we'll have discussions with players about their motivations, intentions and, best of all, their gear. We'll talk about their careers and how they express themselves in the constantly changing world of guitar music. Anti-Heroes is hosted by Zach Blair, a lifelong guitar obsessive with a career spanning almost thirty years. From his early days in Hagfish that he started with his brother on to the world renowned shock rock musical theater that is GWAR to currently recording and touring in Chicago's Rise Against for the last 15 years. Zach is still searching when it's comes to guitar playing and always will be. Maybe he'll find some answers right here on Anti-Heroes.

  1. NIKKI POST-IN LIEU

    4D AGO

    NIKKI POST-IN LIEU

    Nikki shares her early relationship with music, how it developed her guitar playing and how she is approaching touring the new album Hooligan, from her band IN LIEU. The discussion moves to importance of genuine musical expression over social media trends, highlighting the significance of live performances and personal connections in building a fanbase. Zach and Nikki discuss the profound impact of live music, the significance of personal gear choices, and the journey of creating music. They delve into Nikki's first guitar, her current equipment, and the influences that shape her sound. The two touch on the challenges faced with gear mishaps and the excitement surrounding the release of the new album. Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    41 min
  2. DONIVAN BLAIR-TOADIES

    MAY 7

    DONIVAN BLAIR-TOADIES

    Today I embark on my first 2nd!! My brother stops by again to chew the fat and update us all on the exciting things happening in his world. We look at his musical journey, his exploration of bass tones, the evolution of the Toadies, and the influence of legendary producer Steve Albini. We discuss the significance of musical identity and the creative process behind the Toadies' new album, highlighting the intricate relationship between musicians and their craft. We also discuss our experiences in the music industry, including navigating band dynamics, recording, and the influence of Paul McCartney. We talk about Doni's new podcast Why Bass which explores the world of bass players and their unique position in rock n roll. He share's insights about his upcoming album and tour and great news.....unlike last time, we do not get into a fight about the age of a vintage bass. Why Bass Podcast Toadies Toadies Live Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop Get you music out there with Distrokid. 30% off here. Distrokid For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars Ep sponsored by Kingston Union. Your go to for the original Wino shoe. Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    51 min
  3. AL DI MEOLA

    APR 23

    AL DI MEOLA

    For my first episode of the season I get the privilege of chatting with the guitar TITAN that is Al Di Meola! I still can't believe I got to meet the man much less interview him. Al reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on musicians, the importance of protest concerts, and his journey as a guitarist and composer. He discusses how the pandemic allowed him to delve deeper into his creative process, the unprecedented fear of not being able to tour again, and the significance of using music as a platform for social issues. Di Meola also shares insights into his evolution as a musician, emphasizing the shift from technical speed to the importance of composition and artistic expression. In this engaging conversation, Al Di Meola reflects on his journey as a musician, sharing insights from his early performances at Carnegie Hall to his evolution in musical style. He discusses the challenges modern guitarists face, the importance of legacy, and how music can serve as a powerful voice for change. Al also navigates personal relationships shaped by differing beliefs and shares his experiences with musical gear, revealing a deep connection to his craft. This episode was an absolute honor. AL Di Meolo Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars Ep sponsored by Kingston Union. Your go to for the original Wino shoe. Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    1h 8m
  4. Welcome to Season 8!

    APR 16

    Welcome to Season 8!

    Welcome to season 8, we have some exciting guests…Al Di MEOLA, John Congleton, Mike Sheinbaum from Darkest Hour and much more. First ep April 23rd! Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    2 min
  5. Special Announcement! Introducing Why Bass?!!! A new podcast with Donnie Blair

    FEB 25

    Special Announcement! Introducing Why Bass?!!! A new podcast with Donnie Blair

    Ruinous Media and The Anti-Heroes podcast would like to welcome Why Bass? Why Bass? Is a podcast that shifts the focus from a bass players history and curriculum vitae to that age old question - why would anyone want to play the bass guitar? Donivan Blair asks this question with bassist’s of all styles and ranges on each episode and allows the guest to tell the audience in their own words who inspired them, why they chose the instrument and their gear of choice. ‘Why Bass?’ Is hosted by Donivan Blair who does not understand why anyone needs more than four strings and has been obsessed with the bass guitar since 1985. He started the punk band Hagfish with brother Zach in 1991, left their hometown of Sherman, TX and never looked back. Touring the world with Only Crime and Armstrong led him to joining the Toadies in 2008. Donivan knows why he plays the bass but is curious to find out why others have decided to follow this particular yellow brick road. Please visit out sponsors Jim Dunlop Schecter Guitars Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    3 min

  6. 09/11/2025 ·  BONUS

    A Message From Zach

    Hello! Zach here with a wrap on season 7. I still can’t believe I’ve been able to sit down with friends, family and strangers and chat about the thing I love most.... guitars, gear and music! Music has benefitted my life in countless ways and you, the listeners, have supported me on this journey. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.  I also send this season off by re-introducing myself and letting you know where I stand outside of the music world. Thank you! Until next season! Rise Against Episode supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Schecter Guitars⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Episode supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Distrokid⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Episode supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jim Dunlop⁠⁠ Mentioned in this episode: Schecter Guitars Dunlop

    8 min
  7. DAN PHILLIPS-TRUE WIDOW

    09/04/2025

    DAN PHILLIPS-TRUE WIDOW

    Today Zach talks with Dan Phillips, guitarist, and singer of True Widow and previously Slow Ride.  Zach and discuss their shared musical history and the evolution of their respective bands. They talk early influences, the creative process behind their music, and the significance of their collaborative experiences in Dallas. Dan highlights the importance of musical experimentation and the personal connections that has shaped his art. They discuss the nuances of musicianship, the formation of new bands, and the importance of finding one's unique voice in music. They celebrate the joy of imperfection in live performances, the future of True Widow, and the gear that defines Dan’s sound. This one is special as Dan is one of Zach’s oldest friends and a huge influence on him him and his career. TRUE WIDOW Episode supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Schecter Guitars⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Episode supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Distrokid⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Episode supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jim Dunlop⁠⁠ Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    45 min
  8. DONNIE WALSH-GRUMPSTER

    08/21/2025

    DONNIE WALSH-GRUMPSTER

    Today’s guest is Donnie Walsh, bassist and singer of bay area punkers, Grumpster.  Zach and Donnie discuss the origin of Grumpster and the musical influences that shaped their sound. They delve into the importance of community in music, share insights about their gear preferences, and reflect on the hard work that goes into being a touring musician. The two discuss the balance between the romanticized view of rock stardom and the gritty reality of life on the road, including the challenges of touring, chasing technology, and the joys of live performance. The two celebrate the camaraderie in their music community and the value in connecting with their audiences.  Notable mention: this is the first episode Anti-Heroes recorded in a moving van! Grumpster Episode supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Schecter Guitars⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Episode supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Distrokid⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Episode supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jim Dunlop⁠⁠ Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    37 min
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Trailers

4.8
out of 5
33 Ratings

About

Anti-Heroes with Zach Blair is a podcast about guitar players that aren't on the covers of the guitar magazines but our host, Zach Blair thinks they should be. Each episode we'll have discussions with players about their motivations, intentions and, best of all, their gear. We'll talk about their careers and how they express themselves in the constantly changing world of guitar music. Anti-Heroes is hosted by Zach Blair, a lifelong guitar obsessive with a career spanning almost thirty years. From his early days in Hagfish that he started with his brother on to the world renowned shock rock musical theater that is GWAR to currently recording and touring in Chicago's Rise Against for the last 15 years. Zach is still searching when it's comes to guitar playing and always will be. Maybe he'll find some answers right here on Anti-Heroes.

Information

  • Creator
    Zach Blair
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    69
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023 Anti-Heroes with Zach Blair
  • Show Website
    Anti-Heroes with Zach Blair

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